Storm watch: Governor - State stands ready

August 24, 2012

TALLAHASSEE The Florida State Emergency Response Team is partially activated in response to potential impacts of Tropical Storm Isaac. Although the track of Isaac is uncertain at this time, Florida's emergency managers are prepared to respond as needed. The State Emergency Response Team will continue to monitor the storm and provide support to local officials as requested.

"Obviously, we are hoping Isaac doesn't hit Florida, but we must take every precaution," said Gov. Rick Scott in a preparted statement. "That's what we're doing on a state level, and it's what everyone should be doing on a family and personal level. If you haven't already, get prepared and get a plan."

Friday marks the 20th Anniversary of Hurricane Andrew, a Category Five hurricane that made landfall in South Florida on Monday, Aug. 24, 1992. Regardless of where you live in Florida, you can be impacted by a tropical weather system, and if you haven't been already, you probably know someone who has. It is so important that we all do our part to prepare for a storm like Hurricane Andrew because it could happen at any time. Hurricane Andrew serves as a strong reminder that "it only takes one."

WEATHER SUMMARY:

At 5 p.m. Thursday, Tropical Storm Isaac was located about 225 miles southeast of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, or approximately 1,083 miles southeast of Miami, Florida. Isaac continues to be steered by the southern edge of a large high pressure system, but it has begun its turn toward the northwest and is now moving toward the west-northwest at 15 mph. This general motion is expected to continue through Saturday.

SUMMARY:

The State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee has activated in response to Tropical Storm Isaac. All Emergency Support Functions, as well as a liaison from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, are represented at the SEOC.

* It is too early to forecast the extent of any effects Tropical Storm Isaac will have on Florida. Everyone in and near the error cone should continue to closely monitor this system and renew their preparedness plans.

* There are no tropical watches or warnings in effect for the United States; but the southern tip of Florida including the Florida Keys are in the three day error cone and almost all of Florida is within the five day error cone. Remember that the cone does not necessarily forecast impacts.

* Flood Warnings are in effect for six Florida rivers.

* Florida's residents and visitors are encouraged to be prepared now by ensuring their emergency plans are updated and disaster supply kits are stocked. Tools to build your family or business emergency plan and learn about what to put in your disaster supply kit are available at www.FloridaDisaster.org.